Which trait do fraud perpetrators generally exhibit more than traditional property offenders?

Fraud perpetrators generally exhibit a higher level of optimism compared to traditional property offenders. This optimism can manifest as a strong belief in their ability to succeed without getting caught, which can drive their decision-making processes. They may underestimate the risks involved in their illegal activities, leading them to take greater chances. This trait is particularly prevalent in fraud cases, where individuals often construct elaborate schemes with a firm belief that they will be able to outsmart the system or recover their losses eventually.

In contrast, traditional property offenders may not necessarily approach their crimes with this level of optimistic projection. Their motivations could be more closely tied to immediate needs or reactive situations, rather than a long-term belief in favorable outcomes from their criminal activities. This distinction highlights an important psychological factor that differentiates the mindset of fraud perpetrators from that of other types of criminals.

Other traits mentioned, such as impulsiveness, drug use, or high levels of stress, may be present in various types of offenders but do not distinctly characterize fraud perpetrators as strongly as optimism does. Fraud criminals often take calculated risks instead of acting on impulses, and their motives may not be primarily influenced by substance use or overt stress factors. As a result, optimism stands out as a defining trait specific to those involved in fraud